Director General, WBG Independent Accountability Mechanism

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a global development organization established to reduce poverty and promote shared prosperity. It was founded in 1944 and has since grown to include over 10,000 employees working in more than 100 countries. The WBG operates through various arms, including the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the International Development Association (IDA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA). The organization focuses on providing financial and technical assistance to developing countries, with a mission to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity. The WBG is committed to addressing environmental and social risks in its operations, ensuring sustainable development, and enhancing accountability through its Independent Accountability Mechanism (IAM).

Job Overview:
The Director General (DG) of the WBG Independent Accountability Mechanism (IAM) plays a crucial role in ensuring that environmental and social (E&S) risks are effectively managed within the WBG's operations. The DG will lead the implementation of the new IAM policy, transitioning from the previous accountability system while maintaining the IAM's independence and credibility. This position requires a strategic leader who will oversee the IAM's three main functions: Dispute Resolution, Compliance, and Advisory. The DG will be responsible for managing the IAM's operations, ensuring that grievances from affected communities are addressed, and that the WBG adheres to its E&S policies. The role involves significant interaction with various stakeholders, including project-affected individuals, civil society organizations, and WBG management, to foster transparency and accountability in the WBG's projects. The DG will also be tasked with monitoring the IAM's performance and reporting to the WBG Boards, ensuring that the mechanism remains effective and responsive to the needs of those impacted by WBG-financed operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director General of the WBG IAM will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the development and implementation of the new IAM policy and facilitating the transition from the current accountability system.
• Ensuring the effective functioning of the IAM's three arms—Dispute Resolution, Compliance, and Advisory—by overseeing case management, maintaining process integrity, and establishing internal guidelines.
• Directing complex investigations and ensuring thorough fact-finding.
• Managing the IAM's daily operations, including work program planning, budget management, and staff performance oversight.
• Presenting annual budget requests to the WBG Boards and ensuring adherence to budgetary levels.
• Monitoring key performance indicators to assess the IAM's effectiveness and supporting continuous improvement.
• Communicating with complainants and affected parties while managing risks and safeguarding confidential information.
• Providing strategic leadership to the IAM team, fostering a culture of integrity and inclusion, and ensuring compliance with administrative rules.
• Hiring staff and managing administrative matters, including contracts and travel. 1
• Ensuring the integrity and accuracy of IAM reports and findings. 1
• Representing the IAM in public and private forums and overseeing stakeholder outreach. 1
• Meeting regularly with Board Committee Chairs to keep them informed of IAM activities and preparing necessary reports. 1
• Safeguarding the IAM's independence from stakeholders linked to cases and maintaining a direct reporting line to the Boards. 1
• Coordinating with other accountability mechanisms to develop transitional arrangements and manage the closure of existing mechanisms while launching the new IAM.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Director General position must possess a set of essential qualifications, including:

• A minimum of 20 years of relevant professional experience in fields related to environmental and social governance, compliance, or dispute resolution.
• A strong educational background in economics, law, social or environmental sciences, or a related development field.
• Demonstrated expertise in managing complex E&S issues in large-scale projects, particularly concerning resettlement, economic displacement, and impacts on Indigenous Peoples.
• Proven ability to manage multi-disciplinary teams and engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, including marginalized groups.
• Strong integrity and independence, with the ability to perform duties free from undue influence.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with experience in engaging constructively with diverse stakeholders.
• A solid understanding of E&S compliance aligned with international standards and legal frameworks.
• Experience in leading institutional change and system-building processes, including developing policy frameworks and operational systems.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Director General position includes a degree in economics, law, social or environmental sciences, or a related development field. Candidates should have a strong academic foundation that supports their understanding of the complexities involved in environmental and social governance, compliance, and dispute resolution. Advanced degrees or specialized training in relevant fields may be advantageous and are often preferred.

Experience:
The level of experience required for this position is substantial, with a minimum of 20 years in relevant professional roles. Candidates should have a proven track record of leadership in international development, particularly in managing or engaging with complex environmental and social issues. Experience working with Multilateral Development Banks and understanding the dynamics of public and private sector interactions in developing countries is essential. The role demands a deep understanding of institutional accountability mechanisms and the ability to navigate multi-stakeholder environments effectively.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, as it is the primary language of communication within the WBG and for international stakeholders. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly those relevant to the regions where the WBG operates, would be considered a valuable asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role at the level of Vice President within the WBG, reflecting the significant institutional importance of the Director General's responsibilities. The appointment is for a fixed term of five years, non-renewable, and the incumbent will not be employed by the WBG following the end of their term. The role involves a commitment to confidentiality as outlined in WBG policies and adherence to the Group Staff Rules and Staff Code of Conduct. The WBG offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical insurance, and paid leave, and is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.